Frequently-asked questions about food donations

Q: What are some suggested donation items?
A: Click HERE for a list of several ideas for donations to Second Harvest.

Q: Am I protected from liability for the food I donate?
A: Yes! Federal law protects donors who give food which meets all federal, state, and local quality and labeling standards, even if the food may not be readily marketable due to appearance, age, freshness, grade, size, surplus or other conditions.

Q: Can I get a receipt of my donation?
A: Yes! We keep very detailed records of every donation, and can furnish, within a reasonable time following your contribution, a written statement detailing your donation. (Note that records will be made available to the Internal Revenue Service upon request.)

Q: Can Second Harvest pick up my donation?
A: Yes, if your donation totals at least 750 pounds. Our drivers also have a high volume of very large retail and food industry pickups, as well as deliveries to local pantries we support across 23 parishes.

Q: Where can I drop off my food donation?
A: We accept donations from 7:30 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at two locations: 700 Edwards Avenue in the Elmwood Warehouse District area, or at our Lafayette location, 215 E. Pinhook Road.

Q: How can I start a food drive?
A: Click HERE for information on how to start your own drive and for a toolkit to help get the most donations possible!

Q: Can I make a monetary donation instead?
A: Certainly! Every $1 donated can help provide 4 meals for a South Louisiana neighbor in need.  Click HERE to make a monetary donation.